John River

The John River extends 136 miles from Endicott Mountains through alpine tundra and forested valleys before joining the Koyukuk River at Bettles Field.

The valley contains 96 archaeological sites representing multiple periods of human occupation, including Paleoindian, Paleoarctic, Northern Archaic, and Arctic Small Tool traditions.

The river corridor spans both Inupiat and Athapaskan territories, with settlements around Anaktuvuk Pass documenting 8,000 years of continuous human habitation.

Float trips range from Class II to Class III+ in upper sections, while lower portions offer gentler conditions suitable for family river activities.

The river follows a narrow corridor one mile wide through the mountains, serving as a migration route for three major caribou herds.

GPS coordinates: 67.44858,-152.06006

Latest update: October 29, 2025 18:35